A Note from Dassie’s Desk: The Duality of Yom Kippur and Parenting

Yom Kippur presents a powerful duality: While we confess and atone for our sins through heartfelt prayer, the day itself inherently grants forgiveness to every Jew. This raises a question: If forgiveness is embedded in the day, why do we spend the entire day fasting, praying, and confessing our individual wrongdoings?

The answer lies in feeling content and comfortable versus the need for progress and growth. G-d's love for us is projected through His unconditional forgiveness on Yom Kippur. At the same time, we must still take responsibility for our actions through the 3 steps to Teshuva, which include the Al Chet Prayer. Yom Kippur provides two opportunities: 1. To come face to face with our Yechidah—soul connection with Hashem and 2. To actively refine our character through acknowledging our shortcomings and committing to do better.

Parenting mirrors this concept. We have an unconditional, unwavering love for our children, no matter what they do. Yet, despite knowing that our love and forgiveness are limitless, we teach our children the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and making amends. This is how we guide them toward a life of growth, progress, and humility. Our love remains as strong as the day they were born, but we still provide expectations, leading them through the process of recognizing mistakes and striving for better behavior.

The value of accountability and the never-breaking bond that exists in both relationships (between parent and child—and G-d and the Jewish people) is the duality of Yom Kippur.

May Hashem grant us forgiveness as both a Father and a King, and may we emerge from Yom Kippur renewed and refined.

Wishing you an easy and meaningful fast!